Personal computer card for collection of real-time biological data

ABSTRACT

A real-time biological data processing PC card is lightweight, cost effective, and portable. The real-time biological data processing PC card is capable of converting a host personal computer system into a powerful diagnostic instrument. Each real-time biological data processing PC card is adapted to input and process biological data from one or more biological data sensors, and is interchangeable with other real-time biological data processing PC cards. A practitioner having three different real-time biological data processing PC cards, for example, each one corresponding to a different biological data collection device, effectively carries three full-sized, powerful diagnostic instruments. The full resources of a host personal computer can be utilized and converted into a powerful diagnostic instrument, for each biological data collection device, by the insertion of one of the real-time biological data processing PC cards.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.09/666,878, filed on Sep. 20, 2000, entitled PERSONAL COMPUTER CARD FORCOLLECTION OF REAL-TIME BIOLOGICAL DATA, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 09/173,059, filed on Oct. 15, 1998, entitledPERSONAL COMPUTER CARD FOR COLLECTION OF REAL-TIME BIOLOGICAL DATA,which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 08/810,632,filed on Feb. 28, 1997, entitled PERSONAL COMPUTER CARD FOR COLLECTIONOF REAL-TIME BIOLOGICAL DATA, all of which are commonly assigned and thecontents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates generally to personal computer (PC)cards and, more particularly, to PC cards for use in combination withpersonal computers for collecting biological data on a real-time basis.

[0004] 2. Description of Related Art

[0005] The United States health care system is currently in the midst ofa transformation away from specialized medicine toward a morecost-conscious, primary-care oriented system. Devices havingcost-effective means for diagnosing and monitoring patients are expectedto gain prominence in the market place. Many current data acquisitiondevices exist in the medical industry, but few, if any, of these devicesare economical, extremely lightweight and portable, accurate, versatile,and interchangeable with other biological data collection devices.

[0006] One prior art device, manufactured by the assignee of the presentapplication, incorporates a diagnostic box which is adapted tointerface; with a serial port of a personal computer. This diagnosticbox is manufactured with a relatively expensive housing, having a sizeapproximately equal to that of a book, an alternating current (AC) chordand power adapter, a serial port cable, a microprocessor, and otherhardware elements.

[0007] The diagnostic box allows a user to perform real-time spirometryoperations, while harnessing the PC computer's display, keyboard,printer, and other items. The PC computer display instructs the userwith selectable patient incentives, and user-customized reports can begenerated. The display of the personal computer can be configured todisplay volume-versus-time and flow-versus-volume curves. Additionally,parameters such as maximum exhale volume, maximum inhale volume andmaximum flow rate can be computed and displayed on the personal computerdisplay.

[0008] Data acquisition cards have existed in the prior art fortransferring electrical signals from a data sensor through the dataacquisition card and into a personal computer. These data acquisitionscards have been configured into Personal Computer Memory CardInternational Association (PCMCIA) cards.

[0009] Prior art data acquisition cards are often configured to measurepotential signals ranging from zero to ten volts, and are oftenconfigured with twelve bit accuracy. A typical prior art dataacquisition card may comprise a 30 pin connector and a cable, which isconnected to a connector board. The connector board allows a user tohook up various signals thereto. In addition to the relativelyhigh-voltage signal range (zero to ten volts), low-accuracy (e.g. twelvebits), extra hardware (30 pin connector, cable, and a connector board),and additional optional hardware, these prior art data acquisition cardsare configured with a plurality of inputs and outputs and, further, arenot adapted to convert a personal computer into a powerful biologicaldata signal collecting, processing, and monitoring system.

[0010] Prior art data acquisition cards are not adapted for performingspirometry collection and analysis, since these cards are not equippedwith pressure transducers for converting pressure signals intoelectrical signals. Even if these prior art data acquisition cards wereequipped with pressure transducers, the cards would not be equipped withhigh-precision low-voltage signal collection and conditioning circuitry.A prior art data acquisition card, additionally, would not be suitablefor other biological data collection and processing purposes, such asElectrocardiography (ECG) biological data collection, since these priorart data acquisition cards are not equipped with any insulating meansfor insulating a patient from potential shock, which may be deliveredfrom the data acquisition card to the patient.

[0011] Another prior art device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,549,115to Morgan et al. The Morgan et al. patent generally discloses a PCMCIAformat card which is adapted to perform as a data storage device,similarly to a floppy disc storage device. The PCMCIA format cart ofMorgan et al. is equipped with a real-time clock for providing time anddate data to the host system, in order to synchronize the host systemtime with the time of which the data was actually acquired. The PCMCIAformat card of Morgan et al. does not provide any means for real-timedata collection and processing and, accordingly, is not suitable forconverting a host PC computer into a real-time biological data signalcollection, processing, and monitoring system. The system of the Morganet al. patent requires a separate dedicated computer device foracquiring the data, and a separate personal computer device forprocessing the data at a later time.

[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 5,546,432 to Thomson discloses a spirometer whichincludes control electronics located remotely from a hand-held housing.Communication between the hand-held housing, which includes ananalog-to-digital (A/D) converter and an amplifier, occurs through acable. A dedicated microprocessor including a simple keyboard structuredand adapted specifically to control the operation of a spirometer isincluded in the Thomson device. The handle-shaped housing of the Thomsonpatent is quite different from a PC card.

[0013] A need exists in the prior art for real-time biological datasignal collecting, processing, and monitoring systems, which areextremely lightweight and portable. The prior art has not introduced anycost-effective PC card, which is adapted to convert a host personalcomputer into any of a variety of real-time data collecting andprocessing systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The real-time biological data processing PC card of the presentinvention is very lightweight, cost effective, and portable. Thereal-time biological data processing PC card of the present invention iscapable of converting a host personal computer system into a powerfuldiagnostic instrument. Each real-time biological data processing PC cardis adapted to input and process biological data from one or morebiological data sensors, and is interchangeable with other real-timebiological data processing PC cards. A practitioner having threedifferent real-time biological data processing PC cards, each onecorresponding to a different biological data collection device,effectively carries three full-sized, powerful diagnostic instruments.The full resources of a host personal computer may be utilized andconverted into a powerful diagnostic instrument, for each biologicaldata collection device, by the insertion of one of the real-timebiological data processing PC cards.

[0015] A portable computer card for collecting biological data,according to the present invention, includes a pressure transduceradapted to receive an air pressure from an air tube and to convert theair pressure into an electrical signal. The portable computer cardincludes an analog-to-digital converter adapted to receive and digitizethe electrical signal, and a portable computer card interface adapted toprovide an interface between the portable computer card and a hostmicroprocessor system. The portable computer card interface may comprisea PCMCIA card interface. An amplifier, which is adapted to receive andamplify the electrical signal from the pressure transducer, is disposedbetween the pressure transducer and the analog-to-digital converter. Theamplified electrical signal is related to the air pressure. The portablecomputer card further includes a housing, which is adapted for holdingthe pressure transducer, the amplifier, the analog-to-digital converter,and the portable computer card interface. A pressure input port isdisposed on the housing. This pressure input port is in fluidcommunication with the pressure transducer and is adapted to receive anair pressure from an air tube. The portable computer card furtherincludes a flexible air passageway, which is integrally connected to thehousing, and which is adapted to supply an air pressure to the pressureinput port.

[0016] According to still another aspect of the present invention, aportable biological data collection device includes a portable computercard housing, a biological data receiver, signal conditioning circuitry,and a portable computer card interface. The biological data receiver isadapted to receive biological data and to output the biological data,and the signal conditioning circuitry is adapted to receive thebiological data from the biological data receiver and to convert thebiological data into digitized biological data. The portable computercard interface is disposed within the portable computer card housing,and is adapted to communicate with a host computer to relay thedigitized biological data to the host computer on a real-time basis asthe biological data is converted by the signal conditioning circuitry.

[0017] The biological data receiver can be adapted to receive biologicaldata from a pulse oximetry sensor, which is located externally of theportable biological data collection device. The biological data receivercan further be adapted to receive biological data from an ECG sensor.The biological data sensor is adapted to output low-amplitude signals onan order of one millivolt. The digitized data from the analog-to-digitalconverter preferably has a resolution greater than 12 bits and,preferably, has a resolution of 16 bits. The biological data sensor mayfurther include a spirometer air tube.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present invention, a hostcomputer is configurable among a plurality of biological data collectiondevice modes. The host computer includes a portable computer card slotadapted to receive a portable computer card therein, a portable computercard interface adapted to communicate with a portable computer cardinserted into the portable computer card slot, a microprocessor, a databus, and input means for receiving designation data from a portablecomputer card within the portable computer card slot. The portablecomputer card interface is adapted to receive digitized biological datafrom a portable computer card inserted into the portable computer cardslot, and the input means is operatively connected to themicroprocessor. The designation data is indicative of a type ofdigitized biological data from a portable computer card inserted intothe portable computer card slot. The designation data may compriseeither a first identifier for indicating that the digitized biologicaldata should be interpreted by the microprocessor as spirometer-pressuredata or a second identifier indicating that the digitized biologicaldata should be interpreted by the microprocessor as pulse oximetryelectrical data. The host computer includes configuration means forconfiguring the host computer into a real-time spirometer-pressure datacollecting and analyzing device upon receipt of the first identifier,and for configuring the host computer into a real-time pulse oximetryelectrical data collecting and analyzing device upon receipt of thesecond identifier. The host computer may also be configured into an ECGdata collection device mode, upon receipt of a third identifier from theinput means. Additionally, the host computer may be configured amongvarious other biological data collection device modes, upon receipt ofadditional identifiers.

[0019] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, acombination of a plurality of interchangeable biological data portablecomputer cards includes a spirometer portable computer card and a pulseoximetry portable computer card. The spirometer portable computer cardand the pulse oximetry portable computer card are both insertable into apersonal computer system, and are interchangeable. The spirometerportable computer card is adapted to convert the host computer into aspirometer data collecting and analyzing device, and the pulse oximetryportable computer card is adapted to convert the host computer into apulse oximetry data collecting and analyzing device. The combination ofinterchangeable biological data portable computer cards may furtherinclude an ECG portable card, as well as other computer cards, eachbeing adapted to convert the host personal computer into a differenttype of biological data collecting and analyzing device.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, a portablecomputer card for delivering biological data to a host computer includesa portable computer card housing, at least one conductor connected tothe portable computer card housing, an amplifier operatively connectedto the at least one conductor, a power source operatively connected tothe amplifier, and insulating means for providing electrical insulationbetween the power source and the conductor. The conductor is adapted tocollect biological data from a patient, and the amplifier is adapted toreceive the biological data and to output an amplified signal. Theinsulating means may comprise an optical translator, and can bepositioned between the conductor and the amplifier. The portablecomputer card further includes an analog-to-digital converter fordigitizing the amplified signal, and a portable computer card interfacefor providing a communication link between the portable computer cardand a host personal computer system. The portable computer cardinterface is adapted to relay the digitized amplified signal to the hostcomputer on a real-time basis, as biological data is collected from apatient. The power source comprises a conductor, which is adapted forreceiving power from the host personal computer.

[0021] The present invention, together with additional features andadvantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the followingdescription taken in connection with the accompanying illustrativedrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022]FIG. 1 illustrates a real-time biological data processing PC cardaccording to the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 1a illustrates an end view of the real-time biological dataprocessing PC card of FIG. 1, taken from the direction of the line 1 a-1a;

[0024]FIG. 1b illustrates a top planar view of the real-time biologicaldata processing PC card, without the air tube connection;

[0025]FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic block diagram of the circuitry ofthe real-time biological data processing PC card and a host personalcomputer system, according to the present invention;

[0026]FIG. 3 illustrates a host-personal computer system according tothe present invention;

[0027]FIG. 4 illustrates a real-time biological data processing PC cardaccording to the present invention;

[0028]FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic block diagram of the circuitry ofthe real-time biological data processing PC card according to thepresent invention;

[0029]FIG. 6a illustrates a simplified perspective view of the maincircuit board of the real-time biological data processing PC cardaccording to the present invention;

[0030]FIG. 6b illustrates a pulse oximeter module circuit boardaccording to the present invention;

[0031]FIG. 7 illustrates an articulated finger clip sensor according tothe present invention;

[0032]FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis vitals data;

[0033]FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis ventilator-operation data;

[0034]FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis sleep-related data;

[0035]FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis ECG data; and

[0036]FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis carbon-dioxide detection data;

[0037]FIG. 13 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis hydrogen detection data;

[0038]FIG. 14 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis alcohol detection data;

[0039]FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis sleep-related data including body motion and positionand ECG;

[0040]FIG. 16 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis sleep-related data including body motion and position,ECG, EOG and EMG;

[0041]FIG. 17 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis blood pressure related data;

[0042]FIG. 18 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis birth procedure related data;

[0043]FIG. 19 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis blood glucose detection data;

[0044]FIG. 20 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis blood cholesterol detection data;

[0045]FIG. 21 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis blood arterial-blood-gas detection data;

[0046]FIG. 22 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis oxygen detection data;

[0047]FIG. 23 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis body composition data;

[0048]FIG. 24 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis heart beat data;

[0049]FIG. 25 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis ear-drum pressure data;

[0050]FIG. 26 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis blood flow related data;

[0051]FIG. 27 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis EEG related data;

[0052]FIG. 28 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis biological data to a game set; and

[0053]FIG. 29 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis biological data to a set-top box.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Turning to FIG. 1, a real-time biological data processing PC card10 is illustrated having a Personal Computer Memory Card InternationalAssociation (PCMCIA) format housing 12 and a pressure transducer housing14. The pressure transducer housing 14 preferably comprises a pressureinput port 16, which is adapted to removably accommodate a flexible airpassageway 18. A disposable spirometry mouthpiece 21 is attached to oneend of the flexible air passageway 18, and a connector is attached tothe other end of the flexible air passageway 18. As presently embodied,the connector comprises a truncated, conical shape which is adapted formatingly fitting within the pressure input port 16. After a user breathsinto the disposable spirometry mouthpiece 21, the flexible airpassageway 18 and the disposable spirometry mouthpiece 21 may be removedfrom the pressure input port 16, and discarded. In the below descriptionand claims, the term “spirometry” is intended to encompass not only thegeneral meaning of the word, but also to broadly encompass any otherpulmonary function which can be detected by measuring air flow, pressureor volume.

[0055] The PCMCIA format housing 12 of the real-time biological dataprocessing PC card 10 is preferably configured to conform with PCMCIAdimensional standards. As presently preferred, the PCMCIA format housinghas a width of approximately 2.95 inches. The PCMCIA format housing 12preferably comprises a length of approximately 3.40 inches. The pressuretransducer housing 14, according to the presently preferred embodiment,has dimensions which are larger than PCMCIA conventions permit. Aspresently embodied, the pressure transducer housing 14 comprises aheight of approximately 1 inch. These enlarged dimensions of thepressure transducer housing 14 facilitate placement of biological sensorcircuitry, such as, for example, a pressure transducer.

[0056]FIG. 1a illustrates an end view of the real-time biological dataprocessing PC card 10, taken from a view along the line 1 a-1 a of FIG.1, and FIG. 1b illustrates a top-planar view of the real-time biologicaldata processing PC card 10. A host personal computer 27 comprises aPCMCIA format slot 30, which is sized and dimensioned according toPCMCIA dimensional standards, in order to facilitate insertion of thePCMCIA format housing 12 therein.

[0057]FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic block diagram of componentsassociated with the real-time biological data processing PC card 10 andthe host personal computer 27. The real-time biological data processingPC card 10 comprises a pressure sensor 32, an amplifier 34, ananalog-to-digital converter 36, an analog-to-digital timing circuit 38,a storage buffer 41, and a PCMCIA interface 43. The flexible airpassageway 18 connects the disposable spirometry mouthpiece 21 to thepressure sensor 32, and a conductor path 45 connects the pressure sensor32 to the amplifier 34. The amplifier 34 is connected to theanalog-to-digital converter 36 via a conductor path 47, and theanalog-to-digital converter 36 is connected to the storage buffer 41 viaa conductor path 50. A conductor path 52 connects the analog-to-digitalconverter 36 to the analog-to-digital timing circuit 38, and a conductorpath 54 connects the analog-to-digital timing circuit 38 to the PCMCIAinterface 43. The storage buffer 41 is connected to the PCMCIA interface43 via a conductor path 51. Upon insertion of the real-time biologicaldata processing PC card-10 into the PCMCIA format slot 30, the PCMCIAinterface 43 is connected to a PCMCIA bus interface 58 via a bus 61.

[0058] The host personal computer 27 comprises a microprocessor 61, astorage 63, a display 65, a keyboard 67, and a PCMCIA interface 70. Thehost personal computer 27, of course, may comprise other componentswhich are not shown in FIG. 2. The microprocessor 61 is connected to thestorage 63 via a bus 72, and is connected to the keyboard 67 via a bus74. A bus 76 connects the display 65 to the bus 74, and a bus 78connects the display 65 to the keyboard 67. The microprocessor 61 isconnected to the PCMCIA interface 70 via a bus 81, and the PCMCIAinterface 70 is connected to the PCMCIA bus interface 58 via a bus 83.

[0059] When the real-time biological data processing PC card 10 and thehost personal computer 27 are configured as shown in FIG. 2,communication between the devices 10 and 27 can occur via standardizedPCMCIA protocols. The PCMCIA Developer's Guide-2nd Edition, published bySycard Technology in 1994, the contents of which are expresslyincorporated herein by reference, discloses information on PCMCIAconventions and protocols.

[0060] Although the embodiment of FIG. 2 is shown comprising a pressuresensor 32 and a disposable spirometry mouthpiece 21, any biological datasensor and/or associated components may be incorporated into thereal-time biological data processing PC card 10 in accordance with thepresent invention.

[0061] In one embodiment, each biological data sensor, having adifferent format of biological data, is configured in a separatereal-time biological data processing PC card. The various real-timebiological data processing PC cards are interchangeable, to therebyconfigure the host personal computer 27 into various real-timebiological data collecting and processing modes. Alternatively, a singlereal-time biological data processing PC card 10 may be configured toaccommodate one or more different types of biological data sensors.According to the present invention, various interchangeable real-timebiological data processing PC cards can configure the host personalcomputer 27 into various collecting, processing, and monitoring modes,including spirometry, electrocardiography (including resting, 24-hour,stress testing, signal averaging, event ECG, and heart-ratevariability), blood pressure, body temperature, electroencephalograhy(EEG), echocardiography, Doppler, pulse oximetry (SPO2), sleep analysis,tcPO2, tcPCO2, nitrogen dioxide, capnography, respiratory rate, pulserate, polysomnography, carbon monoxide, gastroesophageal pH, hydrogen,nitric oxide, bio-impedance, glucometer, audiometry, plethysmograph,weight, electromyography, urometry, and tympanometry, for example. Theterm “bioimpedance” is intended to include the general meaning of theterm “bio-impedance” and to also include body composition analysis,cardiac output or any other bio-impedance analysis. Other biologicaldata may also be collected and processed by the host personal computer27, after being configured by a corresponding real-time biological dataprocessing PC card.

[0062] The real-time biological data processing PC card 10 shown in FIG.2, which is adapted for configuring the host personal computer 27 forspirometry procedures, receives a pressure signal from the mouth piece21. The pressure sensor 32, which preferably comprises a pressuretransducer, converts the pressure signal into an electrical signal,which is amplified by the amplifier 34. The analog-to-digital converter36, which is timed by the analog-to-digital timing circuit 38, receivesthe amplified biological data from the amplifier 34, and digitizes thebiological data. The analog-to-digital timing circuit 38 provides atiming signal, which facilitates sampling of the amplified biologicaldata on the conductor path 47. This digitized biological data is outputonto the conductor path 50. The storage buffer 41 receives the digitizedbiological data, and outputs this digitized biological data onto aconductor path 51, where the digitized biological data is made availableto the PCMCIA interface 43. The storage buffer 41 preferably comprises afirst in first out (FIFO) buffer, and may be omitted for simpleconfigurations where buffering capabilities are not needed. Thereal-time biological data processing PC card 10 further comprisescontrol circuitry, and the PCMCIA interface 43 preferably comprisesinput output (I/O) interface glue logic and an input output connector.

[0063] Upon insertion of the real-time biological data processing PCcard 10 into the PCMCIA format slot 30 of the host computer 27, themicroprocessor 61, the PCMCIA interface 70 of the host computer 27, andthe PCMCIA interface 43 of the real-time biological data processing PCcard 10 begin communicating via established PCMCIA format conventions.The microprocessor 61 determines the type of real-time biological dataprocessing PC card which has been inserted into the PCMCIA format slot30. In the illustrated case of FIG. 2, designation data from the PCMCIAinterface 43 indicates to the microprocessor 61 that a spirometry-typereal-time biological data processing PC card 10 has been inserted.Designation data from the PCMCIA interface 43 may, alternatively,identify the real-time biological data processing PC card 10 as beingadapted for relaying oximetry, ECG, or other biological data to the hostpersonal computer 27. As an alternative to, or in addition to, theillustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, a user may input designation data viathe keyboard 67 or the display 65, indicating the type of real-timebiological data processing PC card 10 which has been inserted into thePCMCIA format slot 30 of the host personal computer 27.

[0064] After the host personal computer 27 has “set up” the real-timebiological data processing PC card 10, the host personal computer 27prompts, via the display 65, the user to begin the spirometry test. Aspresently embodied, multi-media devices, such as entertaining displaysand sounds, are implemented by the host personal computer 27 in order toeducate the patient on how to perform the biological data test. Thedisplay 65 prompts the patient to begin the test, and coaches thepatient during the test with, for example, entertaining incentives. Thismulti-media instructional system is configured to assist patients,especially in home disease management situations, helping asthmatics andcystic fibrosis patients, for example, comply with testing protocols.Additionally, the system of the present invention may reduce the needfor skilled human interaction in order to achieve successfuladministration of the biological data tests.

[0065] The biological data from the pressure sensor 32, after beingprocessed by the amplifier 34 and the analog-to-digital converter 36, ispreferably immediately transferred from the PCMCIA interface 43 of thereal-time biological data processing PC card 10 to the PCMCIA interface70 of the host personal computer 27. The host personal computer 27,having received designation data indicating that the real-timebiological data processing PC card 10 is a spirometry real-timebiological data processing PC card, is configured to function as acomplete spirometry data collecting, processing, and monitoring device.For example, a volume-versus-time wave form or a flow-versus-volumecurve may be displayed on the display 65, indicating the real-timebiological data received by the pressure sensor 32. A number of otherparameters, such as maximum exhale volume, maximum inhale volume, andmaximum flow rate, to name a few, may also be shown on the display 65 ofthe host personal computer 27. This data also may be compiled andprinted in a variety of analytical and comparative formats.

[0066]FIG. 3 illustrates a host personal computer 27, according to thepresently preferred embodiment. The host personal computer 27 preferablycomprises a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA). The host personal computer27 may comprise any desktop of laptop computer, as well. When the hostpersonal computer 27 comprises a personal digital assistant, aspresently preferred, Windows® CE (Pegasus) software is preferably used.This software preferably operates on the Windows® CE operating system.Other commercially available software packages, or customized softwarepackages, may be used with the present invention. A pointing device 87,held by the hand 90 of a user, may be used to input data into the hostpersonal computer 27 via a touch sensitive display 65. The host personalcomputer 27, having the real-time biological data processing PC card 10of FIG. 1 inserted therein, is configured into a powerful diagnosticspirometry data collecting and analyzing instrument. Since the real-timebiological data processing PC card 10 uses the keyboard 67, display 65,storage 63, microprocessor 61, power supply (not shown), and datatransmission and printing capabilities (not shown) of the host computersystem 27, the real-time biological data processing PC card 10 itself isvery inexpensive and rudimentary in design. Yet, the real-timebiological data processing PC card 10 is very powerful. The softwareloaded within the host personal computer 27 is preferably configured toallow the real-time biological data processing PC card 10 to interface,via PCMCIA format, with any other of a variety of personal computerssuch as a desktop personal computer, or a notebook personal computer,for example.

[0067] The host personal computer 27 can transmit data via anyconventional means, such as a serial port cable or a modem connectionthrough an RJ11 phone plug. Data may be transmitted over the Internet,for example. In home disease management, for example, the host personalcomputer 27 can be configured to gather, process, and transmitadditional information on the patient's medication, diet, symptoms, andother parameters. The combination of elements of the present inventionthus provides a very portable, lightweight, and inexpensive means fordiagnosing and monitoring patients.

[0068]FIG. 4 illustrates a real-time biological data processing PC card10, having both a disposable spirometry mouthpiece 21 and a pulseoximeter finger clip 98. Like components are designated with likereference numbers. As with the embodiment of FIG. 1, the disposablespirometry mouthpiece 21 is connected to pressure transducer housing 14via a flexible air passageway 18 and a pressure input port 16. The pulseoximeter finger clip 98 is connected to the pressure transducer housing14 via a pulse oximeter cable 101, which transitions into a connector103.

[0069]FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an embodiment ofFIG. 4. Basically, data from a pulse oximeter sensor 105, such as thepulse oximeter clip 98 (FIG. 4), is fed to a pulse oximeter module 107via a conductor path 110. As presently embodied, an optical coupler ispositioned between the pulse oximeter finger clip 98 and a power source(not shown) connection of the real-time biological data processing PCcard 10, to thereby prevent a patient from being shocked therefrom. Datafrom the pulse oximeter module 107 is then fed to the PCMCIA interface43 via a conductor path 112. The pulse oximeter module 107 preferablycomprises elements similar to the amplifier 34, the analog-to-digitalconverter 36, the analog-to-digital timing circuit 38, and the storagebuffer 41. The elements of the pulse oximeter module 107 may be combinedwith or into the elements 34, 36, 38, 41 or, as presently embodied,maintained separately therefrom in the pulse oximeter module 107.

[0070] The host personal computer 27 may receive on a real-time basis,process, and monitor spirometry data and pulse oximetry data, eitherseparately or simultaneously. The designation data, in the illustratedembodiment, indicates to the host personal computer 27 that thereal-time biological data processing PC card 10 comprises bothspirometry data and pulse oximetry data sensors. The pressure sensor 32may alternatively be located on the disposable spirometry mouthpiece 21,as can the amplifier 34, the analog-to-digital converter 36, and theanalog-to-digital timing circuitry 38, or any combination thereof. Anyor all of these elements, in addition to the storage buffer 41, may bepositioned on either the disposable spirometry mouthpiece 21, the pulseoximeter sensor 105, or the real-time biological data processing PC card10, or any combination thereof, or eliminated altogether. Since thepresent invention is not intended to be limited to PCMCIA interfaces 43,any circuitry capable of forwarding an analog signal to a host personalcomputer 27 could reduce the need for components within the real-timebiological data processing PC card 10. The pulse oximeter sensor 105 andthe pulse oximeter module 107 may be manufactured by Nonin® Medical,Inc., located in Plymouth, Minn. According to one embodiment, the pulseoximeter sensor 105 may be similar that in an 8600 portable pulseoximeter, manufactured by Nonin® Medical, Inc.

[0071]FIG. 6a illustrates the main circuit board 118 of the presentlypreferred embodiment, generally corresponding to the elements 32-54 ofFIG. 5. The main circuit board-118 is illustrated comprising a number ofIC chips 121, a pressure input port 16, and a pressure sensor 32. Apulse oximetry module connector 125 accommodates a pulse oximetry moduleconnector 127, which is illustrated in FIG. 6b; The pulse oximetrymodule connector 127 of FIG. 6b is electrically connected to asupplemental circuit board 130. The supplemental circuit board 130generally corresponds to the pulse oximeter module 107 of FIG. 5.

[0072]FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a pulse oximeter fingerclip 98 connected to a hand 87 of a user. The pulse oximeter finger clip98 is connected to the supplemental circuit board 130 via a pulseoximeter cable 101.

[0073]FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card 10 a for collecting and forwarding ona real-time basis vitals data. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, likeelements are designated with like reference numerals followed by theletter “a.” Data from a pulse oximeter sensor 105 a is fed to a pulseoximeter module 107 a via a conductor path 110 a. As presently embodied,an optical coupler is positioned between a pulse oximeter finger clip(not shown) and a power source (not shown) connection of the real-timebiological data processing PC card 10 a, to thereby prevent a patientfrom being shocked therefrom. Data from the pulse oximeter module 107 ais then fed to the PCMCIA interface 43 a via a conductor path 112 a. Thepulse oximeter module 107 a may comprise conventional circuitry forprocessing data from the pulse oximeter sensor 105 a, such as elementsincluding an amplifier, an analog-to-digital converter, ananalog-to-digital timing circuit, and a storage buffer. The elements ofthe pulse oximeter module 107 a may be combined with or into theelements of the temperature module 201 and the blood pressure module 203or, as presently embodied, maintained separately therefrom in the pulseoximeter module 107 a.

[0074] Data from a temperature sensor 205, indicating a body temperatureof a patient, is fed to the temperature module 201 via a conductor path207. Data from the temperature module 201 is then fed to the PCMCIAinterface 43 a via a conductor path 209. The temperature module 201 maycomprise conventional circuitry for processing data from the temperaturesensor 205, such as elements including an amplifier, ananalog-to-digital converter, an analog-to-digital timing circuit, and astorage buffer. The elements of the temperature module 201 may becombined with or into the elements of the pulse oximeter module 107 aand/or the elements of the blood pressure module 203 or, as presentlyembodied, maintained separately therefrom in the temperature module 201.

[0075] Data from a blood pressure sensor 211, indicating a bloodpressure of a patient, is fed to the blood pressure module 203 via aconductor path 213. Data from the blood pressure module 203 is then fedto the PCMCIA interface 43 a via a conductor path 215. The bloodpressure sensor 211 preferably comprises a cuff with microphones as isknown in the art. The blood pressure module 203 may compriseconventional circuitry for processing data from the blood pressuresensor 211, such as elements including an amplifier, ananalog-to-digital converter, an analog-to-digital timing circuit, and astorage buffer. The elements of the blood pressure module 203 may becombined with or into the elements of the pulse oximeter module 107 aand/or the elements of the temperature module 201 or, as presentlyembodied, maintained separately therefrom in the blood pressure module203.

[0076] As presently embodied, a host personal computer 27 receives on areal-time basis, processes, and monitors pulse oximetry data, bodytemperature data, and blood pressure data either separately,sequentially, or simultaneously. The designation data, in the presentlypreferred embodiment, indicates to the host personal computer 27 thatthe real-time biological data processing PC card 10 a comprises pulseoximetry data, temperature data and blood pressure data sensors. One ormore of the components comprising the pulse oximeter module 107 a, thetemperature module 201 and/or the blood pressure module 203 mayalternatively be located on the respective sensors 105 a, 205, 211.

[0077] Turning to FIG. 9, a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis ventilator operation data is shown. In the embodiment ofFIG. 9, like elements are designated with like reference numeralsfollowed by the letter “b.” A pressure line 220 and flow line 222 areconnected to monitor pressure and flow rate of a ventilator connected toa patient. The pressure line inputs pressure data from a hose of theventilator to a pressure sensor 224 and, subsequently, to an amplifier226. The flow line 222 are input into the pressure sensors 228 and theamplifier 230. An analog-to-digital converter 232 receives the signalsfrom the amplifiers 226 and 230, and converts the signals to digitalsignals. The digital signals are forwarded to the PCMCIA interface 43 bvia a storage buffer 236.

[0078] The host personal computer 27 receives on a real-time basis,processes and monitors the pressure and flow rate data from the sensors220 and 222 either separately, sequentially or simultaneously. Thedesignation data indicates to the host personal computer 27 that thereal-time biological data processing PC card 10 b comprises pressure andflow rate data from a ventilator hose connected to a patient. One ormore of the components of the PC card may be placed on the pressure line220 or the differential flow line 222.

[0079]FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis, sleep-related data. A chest band 240 is placed around apatient's chest to measure the patient's respiration rate, for example.Sensors on the chest band 240 measure movement of the patient's chestwhile the patient is sleeping for determining, for example, whether thepatient is breathing through his or her nose and whether an obstructionis present. Data from sensors on the chest band 240 is input into astrain gauge 242 and subsequently amplified by an amplifier 244. A nasalcanula/thermistor 246 measures breathing through a patient's nose, andthe data therefrom is input into a pressure sensor 248 and subsequentlyamplified by the amplifier 250. A pulse oximetry sensor 253 measures thepatient's pulse rate and/or blood-oxygen concentration. Data from thechest band 240 and the nasal canula/thermistor 246 is digitized by theanalog-to-digital converter 260 and passed to the PCMCIA interface 43 cvia a storage buffer 263. Data from the pulse oximetry sensor 253 issimilarly passed to the PCMCIA interface 43 c after being processed byan oximetry module 266. The data from the chest band 240, the nasalcanula/thermistor 246 and the pulse oximetry sensor 253 is transferredto the host personal computer 27 on a real-time basis, eitherseparately, sequentially of simultaneously.

[0080]FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a real-timebiological data processing PC card for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis ECG data. One to twelve leads 275 are attached to apatient for inputting ECG data to a defibrillator protector 277. Thedefibrillator protector 277 accommodates operation of the PC card 10 dwhen the patient is defibrillated, as is known in the art. Conventionalnoise reduction 279 and isolation 281 components receive data from thepreamp 283. Data from the isolation circuitry 281 is input to a filterand analog-to-digital conversion module 293 via an amplifier 295. TheECG data is input into a PCMCIA interface 43 d via a storage buffer 297.The noise reducer 279 may comprise, for example, a driven right leg anddriven shield configuration, wherein an ECG signal from the leads 275 isinverted and injected back into the patient's right leg to cancel noise.The driven shield comprises a similar mechanism for reducing noise as isknown in the art.

[0081] The PC card 10 d may be configured to implement a signalaveraging mode of ECG data collection, wherein a relatively highsampling rate of 2,000 to 3,000 samples per second is implemented, forexample. The samples are subsequently averaged for providing additionalresolution, compared to a slower sampling rate such as 250 samples persecond. Moreover, instead of implementing one to twelve leads forfeeding electrical signals from the patient to the PC card 10 d, awireless embodiment may be implemented. In this embodiment, electricalsignals from the patient are transmitted to a receiver on a PC card, forexample. Processed data from the twelve leads 275 is transferred fromthe PC card 10 d to the host personal computer 27 on a real-time basisin accordance with the present invention.

[0082] Turning to FIG. 12, a PC card 10 e for collecting and forwardingon a real-time basis carbon dioxide detection data to a host personalcomputer 27 on a real-time basis is disclosed. Carbon dioxide in thebreath of a patient is detected by a carbon dioxide detection module312, after being input through a mouthpiece 314. FIG. 13 illustrates ahydrogen detection module 317 within a PC card 10 f. A patient breathesinto a mouthpiece 319. A reading on a detected amount of hydrogen isforwarded to the PC card 27 via a PCMCIA interface 43 f of the PC card10 f on a real-time basis. As shown in FIG. 14, a real-time biologicaldata processing PC card 10 g collects breath from a user via amouthpiece 322. An amount of alcohol in the user's breath is detected byan alcohol detection module 324, which sends digital data to the PCMCIAinterface 43 g for subsequent routing on a real-time basis to thepersonal computer 27.

[0083] A real-time biological data processing PC card for collecting andforwarding on a real-time basis sleep-related data including body motionand position, and ECG, is shown in FIG. 15. The apnea card circuitrygenerally corresponds to that disclosed in FIG. 10, and the PC card 10 hfurther comprises a microphone module 326 for receiving sound signalsfrom a microphone 328 and forwarding digitized signals on a real-timebasis to the PCMCIA interface 43 h. A limb motion module 331 inputs datafrom motion sensors 333. Data from the motion sensor or sensors 333 isprocessed by the limb motion module 331 and forwarded on a real-timebasis to the PCMCIA interface 43 h. Position data from a position sensor336 is forwarded to the body position module 338, processed, andsubsequently forwarded on a real-time basis to the PCMCIA interface 43h. The microphone 328 can be attached to a neck of a patient, forexample, for providing information as to whether the patient is snoring.The motion sensor 333 may comprise an accelerometer, for example, andmay be attached to a limb of a patient to determine limb and/or bodymotion. The position sensor 336 may comprise a mercury switch, forexample, and may be attached to a portion of a patient to determinewhether the patient is lying on his or her stomach or back, for example.An ECG sensor 341 may comprise one or two channels, for example, forinputting electrical information to the ECG module 343. Processedinformation from the ECG module 343 is subsequently forwarded on areal-time basis to the PCMCIA interface 43 h.

[0084] The PC card 10 i of FIG. 16 is similar to that depicted in FIG.15, with additional EEG, EOG, and EMG components. An EEG sensor 348, anEOG sensor 350 and an EMG sensor 352 forward signals detected on apatient to an EEG module 354, an EOG module 356, and an EMG module 358,respectively, on a real-time basis. The EEG module 354, the EOG module356 and the EMG module 358 forward processed data to the PCMCIAinterface 43 i on a real-time basis and, subsequently, as with the otherembodiments of the present invention, the PCMCIA interface 43 ipreferably forwards the real-time data to the host personal computer 27on a real-time basis.

[0085] Turning to FIG. 17, a real-time biological data processing PCcard 10 j inputs blood pressure data from a blood pressure sensor 370 ona real-time basis. The blood pressure sensor preferably comprises ablood pressure cuff with microphones. A blood pressure module 372receives the data from the sensor 370 and forwards processed digitizeddata on a real-time basis to the PCMCIA interface 43 j.

[0086]FIG. 18 illustrates a real-time biological data processing PC cardfor collecting and forwarding on a real-time basis birth procedurerelated data. A chest band 380 comprises a contraction sensor 382 and afetus heart rate sensor 384. The contraction sensor 382 may comprises apressure sensor, for example, which is adapted to be disposed on awoman's stomach via the chest band 380, and the fetus heart rate sensor384 may comprise a microphone. An additional sensor (not shown) may alsobe incorporated for monitoring on a real-time basis the mother's heartrate. The additional sensor may comprise, for example, a pulse oximeter.Data from the contraction sensor 382 and the fetus heart rate sensor 384is input into the pressure sensors and amplifiers 386, 388, 390, 392. Ananalog-to-digital converter 394 processes the information and outputsthe information to the PCMCIA interface 43 k via a storage buffer 397.

[0087]FIGS. 19, 20, and 21 illustrate non-invasive blood compositiondetection PC cards 10L, 10 m and 10 n, respectively, for collecting on areal-time basis biological data and forwarding the data on a real-timebasis to a host personal computer 27. The blood glucose module 401 ofthe PC card 10L inputs blood glucose data from a non-invasive bloodglucose sensor 403 on a real-time basis. The non-invasive blood glucosesensor 403 may comprise any conventional means for measuring a bloodglucose concentration of a patient, such as, for example, a patchadapted to be attached to a person's skin or an optical measuringapparatus. A blood cholesterol module 406 of the PC card 10 m (FIG. 20)inputs blood cholesterol data from a non-invasive blood cholesterolsensor 408. The non-invasive blood cholesterol sensor 408 may compriseany non-invasive blood-cholesterol measuring apparatus. The detectionmodule 411 (FIG. 21) of the PC card 10 n is adapted to receive a breathof a patient via a mouthpiece 413, and detect on a real-time basis gasesincluding, oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen and/or carbon monoxide. Eachof the modules 401, 406 and 411 forwards processed sensor data on areal-time basis to the PCMCIA interfaces 43L, 43 m and 43 n,respectively. FIG. 22 illustrates a PC card 10 o comprising an oxygendetector 415 for inputting breath from a mouthpiece 417 and forwardingprocessed data on a real-time basis to a PCMCIA interface 43 o.

[0088] A real-time biological data processing PC card 110 p forcollecting and forwarding on a real-time basis body composition data isillustrated in FIG. 23. A first conductor 422 and a second conductor 424provide electrical resistance data on a real-time basis to the currentsource/electrical resistance module 426, which subsequently forwardsprocessed information to the PCMCIA interface 43 p. The currentsource/electrical resistance detection module 426 in a preferredembodiment injects an electrical signal into a patient via the firstconductor 422, and uses the second detector 424 to determine anelectrical resistance of the patient. In modified embodiments, eitherthe current source, the electrical resistance detector, or both, may bedisposed within the host personal computer 27. Based upon the measuredelectrical resistance and the electrical signal injected into thepatient, an estimate of a fat composition of the patient is generatedand forwarded to the PCMCIA interface 43 p on a real-time basis.

[0089] The PC card 10 q illustrated in FIG. 24 collects heartbeatinformation on a real-time basis from a heartbeat sensor 430. Theheartbeat information is processed via an amplifier 434 and ananalog-to-digital converter 436, and is passed on a real-time basis tothe PCMCIA interface 43 q via a storage buffer 438. The real-timeheartbeat data can be monitored and manipulated on the personal computer27.

[0090] The PC card 10 r of FIG. 25 inputs data on a real-time basis froman ear probe 440 into a pressure sensor module 443, which processes thedata and subsequently outputs the processed data to the PCMCIA interface43 r on a real-time basis. The ear probe 440 may comprise a hand-heldwand for placement into the ear of a patient. The hand-held wand maycomprise mechanical means for measuring the eardrum pressure or,alternatively, may comprise optical means for measuring an eardrumpressure of the patient as is well known in the art.

[0091] Turning to FIG. 26, a PC card 10 s inputs data from a pencilprobe 450 into a Doppler shift blood flow detection module 455 on areal-time basis. The pencil probe 450 emits acoustical signals which areused for measuring blood flow as is known in the art. Information fromthe pencil probe 450 is first processed by the Doppler shift blood flowdetection module 455, and is subsequently forwarded on a real-time basisto the PCMCIA interface 43 s for use by the personal computer 27. The PCcard lot in FIG. 27 inputs electrical information from EEG sensors 460into an EEG module 465 on a real-time basis. The EEG module 465processes the electrical data and outputs the processed data to a PCMCIAinterface 43 t on a real-time basis for use by the personal computer 27.

[0092]FIG. 28 illustrates a real-time biological data processing PC card501 connected to a game set 503 for collecting and forwarding on areal-time basis biological data to the game set 503. The biological datais received on a real-time basis into the PC card 501 from one or moresensors 505 and 507. A game control 509 is connected to the game set503, and a television 511 operates as a monitor. The PC card 501 can beconfigured similarly to any of the above-described PC cards of thepresent invention, with an exception of the interface for communicatingwith the game set. 503. The game set 503 may comprise a game set such asNintendo® or Sega®. If the game set 503 has a Windows CE operatingsystem and a PCMCIA card slot, then the PC card 501 may be virtuallyidentical to any of the above-discussed PC cards of the presentinvention. If the game set 503 does not have a PC card slot, then otherhousings and/or interfaces may be implemented with the PC card 501 tofacilitate proper real-time communication between the PC card 501 andthe game set 503. One example, compact flash cards and compact flashcard housings may be used. As another example, proprietary Nintendo®game set digital interfaces may be used with the PC card 501. The gameconsole 509 may be connected to either the game set 503 or thetelevision 511, and may be linked by a conventional cord or by awireless communication path.

[0093]FIG. 29 illustrates a real-time biological data processing PC card521 for collecting and forwarding on a real-time basis biological datato a set-top box 523. The set-top box 523 is connected to a television525, which operates as a monitor, and is further connected to a keyboard527. The keyboard 527 may be connected to either the set-top box 523 orthe television 525 via a conventional cable or a wireless communicationpath. In accordance with the illustrated embodiment, the set-top box 523comprises an Internet connection 532 for facilitating real-time datatransfer of biological data from the sensors 535, 537 to one or morereceivers on the Internet. The PC card 521 and sensors 535, 537 maycomprise any combination of PC cards and sensors discussed in any of theabove embodiments. The set-top box 523 can transmit biological data fromthe sensors 535, 537 on a real-time basis over the Internet to otherusers, such as a user at a doctor's office or hospital. Additionally,the set-top box 523 can receive biological data on a real-time basisfrom other users via the Internet connection 532. Information receivedfrom other users via the Internet connection 532 can be displayed by theset-top box 523 on the television 525, for example.

[0094] Information can be transmitted and received through the Internetconnection 532 either on a real-time basis or, alternatively, atpredetermined intervals. The set-top box 523 may be configured toautomatically dial out and establish an Internet connection, and totransmit or receive real-time biological data over the Internet, atpredetermined or user-defined intervals. A patient can conduct testsusing one or more sensors, such as the sensors 535 and 537, and at thesame time or at a later time, transmit the data to a doctor via theInternet connection 532. In addition to a set-top box 523, Internettelephones, personal computers, wireless Internet computers, networkcomputers or other Internet “appliances” capable of sending real-timedata over the Internet may be used. In one embodiment, game sets may beused to transmit or receive the real-time biological data over theInternet.

[0095] In modified configurations of the above-described embodiments,some or all of the circuitry and/or components for each of the moduleson the personal computer cards can be placed within the hostmicroprocessor system, so long as the card is able to input digitalinformation to the host microprocessor system. Moreover, in othermodified configurations circuitry and/or components for each of themodules on the personal computer cards can be placed on the biologicaldata sensors themselves, in addition to or in the alternative toplacement of the circuitry and/or components on the host microprocessorsystem. In embodiments where the signal or signals from the biologicaldata sensor or sensors is simply digitized and forwarded to the hostmicroprocessor system (personal computer, game set, set-top box, etc.)for subsequent processing and interpretation, the signal-conditioningcircuitry can comprise the bare-essential elements, such as merely ananalog-to-digital converter, for formatting the data from the biologicaldata sensors and forwarding to the host microprocessor system.

[0096] In embodiments wherein the host microprocessor system comprises agame set, for example, the personal computer card may have additionalinitializing data. This may be the case for embodiments wherein othertypes of host microprocessor systems are used, as well. In someembodiments, the host microprocessor system is loaded with initializingdata and instructions, for example, before the personal computer card isloaded into the host microprocessor system. In other embodiments,substantial amounts of data and/or instructions are loaded into the hostmicroprocessor system (or game set, set-top box, etc.) by the personalcomputer card at the time of insertion of the personal computer cardinto the host microprocessor system.

[0097] In any of the above-described embodiments of the presentinvention, the personal computer card may comprise a PCMCIA-type card, acard having an interface which is adapted to communicate with a gameset, a compact flash card, or any other type of portable card with aninterface for transmitting data to a host microprocessor system. Anexample of a host microprocessor system adapted for accommodatingcompact flash cards is the Cassiopeia E-10, manufactured by CasioComputer Co. Ltd and described at http://www.casiohpc.com/indes.html.

[0098] Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been shownand described, many other changes, modifications and substitutions, inaddition to those set forth in the above paragraphs, may be made by onehaving ordinary skill in the art without necessarily departing from thespirit and scope of the present invention.

1. A portable biological data collection system comprising: a biologicaldata sensor for engaging a patient for sensing biological data from thepatient; and a portable biological data collection device connected tothe biological data sensor by a flexible connection, the portablebiological data collection device comprising: an amplifier foramplifying the sensed biological data from the biological data sensor toproduce an amplified signal; an analog-to-digital converter fordigitizing the amplified signal to produce a digitized signal; and apersonal computer card interface for relaying the digitized signal to ahost computer on a real-time basis as the biological data is sensed bythe biological data sensor, and for supplying electrical power from thehost computer to the amplifier and the analog-to-digital converter. 2.The portable biological data collection system of claim 1, wherein theportable biological data collection device further comprises a personalcomputer card housing, wherein the amplifier, the analog-to-digitalconverter, and the personal computer card interface are disposed withinthe personal computer card housing.
 3. The portable biological datacollection system of claim 2, wherein the portable biological datacollection device further comprises: an analog-to-digital timing circuitdisposed within the personal computer card housing for communicatingwith the analog-to-digital converter for producing a sampling timingsignal; and a storage buffer disposed within the personal computer cardhousing for receiving the digitized signal from the analog-to-digitalconverter for outputing the digitized signal; wherein the personalcomputer card interface supplies electrical power from the host computerto the analog-to-digital timing circuit and the storage buffer.
 4. Theportable biological data collection device of claim 1, wherein theflexible connection comprises a hollow tube.
 5. The portable biologicaldata collection system of claim 4, wherein the portable biological datacollection device further comprises a personal computer card housing,wherein the amplifier, the analog-to-digital converter, and the personalcomputer card interface are disposed within the personal computer cardhousing.
 6. The portable biological data collection system of claim 5,wherein the portable biological data collection device furthercomprises: an analog-to-digital timing circuit disposed within thepersonal computer card housing for communicating with theanalog-to-digital converter for producing a sampling timing signal; anda storage buffer disposed within the personal computer card housing forreceiving the digitized signal from the analog-to-digital converter foroutputing the digitized signal; wherein the personal computer cardinterface supplies electrical power from the host computer to theanalog-to-digital timing circuit and the storage buffer.
 7. The portablebiological data collection system of claim 4, wherein the biologicaldata sensor comprises a gas composition sensor.
 8. The portablebiological data collection system of claim 7, wherein the gascomposition sensor comprises a breath composition sensor.
 9. Theportable biological data collection system of claim 7, wherein thebiological data sensor is selected from a group consisting of a nitrogensensor, an oxygen sensor, a hydrogen sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, acarbon monoxide sensor, and an alcohol sensor.
 10. The portablebiological data collection system of claim 4, wherein the biologicaldata sensor comprises a mouthpiece.
 11. The portable biological datacollection system of claim 4, wherein the biological data sensor is anon-invasive sensor.
 12. The portable biological data collection systemof claim 4, wherein the biological data sensor is an invasive sensor.13. The portable biological data collection system of claim 1, whereinthe flexible connection comprises an electrical connection.
 14. Theportable biological data collection system of claim 13, wherein theportable biological data collection device further comprises a personalcomputer card housing, wherein the amplifier, the analog-to-digitalconverter, and the personal computer card interface are disposed withinthe personal computer card housing.
 15. The portable biological datacollection system of claim 14, wherein the portable biological datacollection device further comprises: an analog-to-digital timing circuitdisposed within the personal computer card housing for communicatingwith the analog-to-digital converter for producing a sampling timingsignal; and a storage buffer disposed within the personal computer cardhousing for receiving the digitized signal from the analog-to-digitalconverter for outputing the digitized signal-, wherein the personalcomputer card interface supplies electrical power from the host computerto the analog-to-digital timing circuit and the storage buffer.
 16. Theportable biological data collection system of claim 13, wherein thebiological data sensor comprises at least one microphone.
 17. Theportable biological data collection system of claim 13, wherein thebiological data sensor is selected from a group consisting of a pulseoximetry sensor, a temperature sensor, a blood pressure sensor, anelectrocardiography sensor, an electroencephalograhy sensor, anechocardiography sensor, a Doppler sensor, a respiratory rate sensor, apulse rate sensor, a bio-impedance sensor, a blood glucose sensor, ablood cholesterol sensor, a motion sensor, a sound sensor, a heart beatsensor, a weight sensor, an electromyography sensor, anelectro-oculogram sensor, and a body fluid sensor.
 18. The portablebiological data collection device of claim 17, wherein theelectrocardiography sensor is selected from a group consisting of aresting electrocardiography sensor, a 24-hour electrocardiographysensor, a stress testing electrocardiography sensor, a signal averagingelectrocardiography sensor, an event ECG electrocardiography sensor, anda heart-rate variability electrocardiography sensor.
 19. The portablebiological data collection system of claim 13, wherein the biologicaldata sensor is adapted to be in contact with skin of the patient. 20.The portable biological data collection system of claim 19, wherein theportable biological data collection device further comprises electricalisolation circuitry disposed between the flexible connection and theamplifier for electrically isolating a patient from the electricalpower.
 21. The portable biological data collection system of claim 19,wherein the biological data sensor is adapted to be in contact afingertip of the patient.
 22. The portable biological data collectionsystem of claim 13, wherein the biological data sensor is a non-invasivesensor.
 23. The portable biological data collection system of claim 13,wherein the biological data sensor is an invasive sensor.
 24. Theportable biological data collection system of claim 1, wherein thepersonal computer card interface relays designation data to the hostcomputer for allowing the host computer to identify the biological datato be collected.
 25. A portable biological data collection systemcomprising: a plurality of biological data sensors adapted to engagewith a patient for sensing biological data from the patient; and aportable biological data collection device connected to the biologicaldata sensors by a plurality of flexible connections, the portablebiological data collection device comprising: an amplifier foramplifying the sensed biological data from the biological data sensorsto produce amplified signals; an analog-to-digital converter fordigitizing the amplified signals to produce digitized signals; and apersonal computer card interface for relaying the digitized signals to ahost computer on a real-time basis as the biological data is sensed bythe biological data sensors, and for supplying electrical power from thehost computer to the amplifier and the analog-to-digital converter. 26.The portable biological data collection system of claim 25, wherein theportable biological data collection device further comprises a personalcomputer card housing, wherein the amplifier, the analog-to-digitalconverter, and the personal computer card interface are disposed withinthe personal computer card housing.
 27. The portable biological datacollection system of claim 26, wherein the portable biological datacollection device further comprises: an analog-to-digital timing circuitdisposed within the personal computer card housing for communicatingwith the analog-to-digital converter for producing a sampling timingsignal; and a storage buffer disposed within the personal computer cardhousing for receiving the digitized signals from the analog-to-digitalconverter for outputing the digitized signals; wherein the personalcomputer card interface supplies electrical power from the host computerto the analog-to-digital timing circuit and the storage buffer.
 28. Theportable biological data collection system of claim 26, wherein at leastone of the plurality of flexible connections comprises a hollow tube.29. The portable biological data collection system of claim 26, whereinat least one of the plurality of flexible connections comprises anelectrical connection.
 30. The portable biological data collectionsystem of claim 25, wherein the personal computer card interface relaysdesignation data to the host computer for allowing the host computer toidentify the biological data to be collected for each of the pluralityof biological data sensors.
 31. A portable biological data collectiondevice comprising: a biological data sensor adapted to be placed intoclose proximity with a patient for sensing biological data from thepatient; an amplifier for amplifying the sensed biological data from thebiological data sensor to produce an amplified signal; ananalog-to-digital converter for digitizing the amplified signal toproduce a digitized signal; and a personal computer card interface forrelaying the digitized signal to a host computer on a real-time basis asthe biological data is sensed by the biological data sensor, and forsupplying electrical power from the host computer to the amplifier andthe analog-to-digital converter.
 32. The portable biological datacollection device of claim 31 further comprising a personal computercard housing, wherein the amplifier, the analog-to-digital converter,and the personal computer card interface are disposed within thepersonal computer card housing.
 33. The portable biological datacollection device of claim 31, wherein the amplifier is disposed on thebiological data sensor.
 34. The portable biological data collectiondevice of claim 33 further comprising a personal computer card housing,wherein the analog-to-digital converter, and the personal computer cardinterface are disposed within the personal computer card housing. 35.The portable biological data collection device of claim 33, wherein theanalog-to-digital converter is disposed on the biological data sensor.36. The portable biological data collection device of claim 35 furthercomprising a personal computer card housing, wherein the personalcomputer card interface is disposed within the personal computer cardhousing.
 37. The portable biological data collection device of claim 33further comprising a filter disposed on the biological data sensor forfiltering the amplified signals from the amplifier.
 38. The portablebiological data collection device of claim 31 further comprisingelectrical isolation circuitry disposed on the biological data sensorfor electrically isolating a patient from the electrical power.
 39. Theportable biological data collection device of claim 31 furthercomprising a defibrillator protector disposed on the biological datasensor for providing electrical protection to the portable biologicaldata collection device.
 40. A portable biological data collection devicecomprising: a sensor-connector end for connecting to a biological datasensor; signal-conditioning circuitry for receiving biological data fromthe biological data sensor for producing a digitized signal; and acomputer-connector end for connecting to a host computer, thecomputer-connector end comprising a personal computer card interface forrelaying the digitized signal to the host computer on a real-time basisas the biological data is sensed by the biological data sensor, and forsupplying electrical power from the host computer to thesignal-conditioning circuitry; wherein the sensor-connector end isdimensionally larger than the computer-connector end.
 41. The portablebiological data collection device of claim 40, wherein thesensor-connector end comprises a first housing, and wherein thecomputer-connector end comprises a second housing, the personal computercard interface being disposed within the second housing.
 42. Theportable biological data collection device of claim 41, wherein thepersonal computer card interface comprises a PCMCIA interface, andwherein the second housing is a PCMCIA card housing.
 43. The portablebiological data collection device of claim 41, wherein the personalcomputer card interface comprises a compact flash interface, and whereinthe second housing is a compact flash card housing.
 44. The portablebiological data collection device of claim 40, wherein the personalcomputer card interface relays designation data to the host computer forallowing the host computer to identify the biological data to becollected.
 45. The portable biological data collection device of claim40, wherein the signal-conditioning circuitry comprises: an amplifierfor amplifying the sensed biological data from the biological datasensor to produce an amplified signal; and an analog-to-digitalconverter for digitizing the amplified signal to produce the digitizedsignal.
 46. The portable biological data collection device of claim 45,wherein the sensor-connector end comprises first housing, the amplifierbeing disposed within the first housing, and wherein thecomputer-connector end comprises a second housing, the personal computercard interface being disposed within the second housing.
 47. Theportable biological data collection device of claim 45, wherein thesignal-conditioning circuitry further comprises: an analog-to-digitaltiming circuit adapted to communicate with the analog-to-digitalconverter for producing a sampling timing signal; and a storage bufferadapted to receive the digitized signal from the analog-to-digitalconverter for outputing the digitized signal; wherein the personalcomputer card interface is further adapted to supply electrical powerfrom the host computer to the analog-to-digital timing circuit and thestorage buffer.
 48. The portable biological data collection device ofclaim 47, wherein the sensor-connector end comprises a first housing,the amplifier being disposed within the first housing, and wherein thecomputer-connector end comprises a second housing, the personal computercard interface being disposed within the second housing.
 49. Theportable biological data collection device of claim 45, wherein thepersonal computer card interface relays designation data to the hostcomputer for allowing the host computer to identify the biological datato be collected.
 50. The portable biological data collection device ofclaim 40, wherein the computer-connector end is connectable to anexternal port of the host computer.
 51. The portable biological datacollection device of claim 40, further comprising a plurality of stackedcircuit boards disposed within the first end housing.
 52. The portablebiological data collection device of claim 40, further comprising aflexible connection for connecting the sensor-connector end to thebiological data sensor.
 53. The portable biological data collectiondevice of claim 52, wherein the sensor-connector end comprises a firsthousing, the flexible connection being connected to the first housing,and wherein the computer-connector end comprises a second housing, thepersonal computer card interface being disposed within the secondhousing.
 54. The portable biological data collection device of claim 53,wherein the flexible connection comprises a hollow tube.
 55. Theportable biological data collection device of claim 53, wherein theconnection comprises an electrical connection.
 56. The portablebiological data collection device of claim 52, wherein the personalcomputer card interface relays designation data to the host computer forallowing the host computer to identify the biological data to becollected.
 57. The portable biological data collection device of claim40, further comprising a plurality of flexible connections forconnecting the sensor-connector end to a plurality of biological datasensors.
 58. The portable biological data collection device of claim 57,wherein the sensor-connector end comprises a first housing, the flexibleconnections being connected to the first housing, and wherein thecomputer-connector end comprises a second housing, the personal computercard interface being disposed within the second housing.
 59. Theportable biological data collection device of claim 58, wherein at leastone of the plurality of flexible connections comprises a hollow tube.60. The portable biological data collection device of claim 58, whereinat least one of the plurality of flexible connections comprises anelectrical connection.
 61. The portable biological data collectiondevice of claim 57, wherein the personal computer card interface relaysdesignation data to the host computer for allowing the host computer toidentify the biological data to be collected for each of the pluralityof biological data sensors.
 62. A portable biological data collectionsystem comprising: a biological data sensor for engaging a patient forsensing biological data from the patient; and a portable biological datacollection device for receiving the biological data from the biologicaldata sensor, the portable biological data collection device comprising:signal-conditioning circuitry for receiving the biological data and forproducing a digitized signal; and a personal computer card interface forrelaying the digitized signal to a host computer on a real-time basis asthe biological data is sensed by the biological data sensor, forsupplying electrical power from the host computer to the amplifier andthe analog-to-digital converter, and for relaying designation data tothe host computer for allowing the host computer to identify thebiological data to be collected.
 63. The portable biological datacollection system of claim 62, wherein the portable biological datacollection device further comprises a personal computer card housing,wherein the signal-conditioning circuitry and the personal computer cardinterface are disposed within the personal computer card housing.